Description
This creamy baked ziti with spinach and cheese is a comforting and delicious dish perfect for family dinners or cozy nights. With gooey melted cheese, fresh spinach, and marinara sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the best parts of classic baked ziti. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is an easy, satisfying meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
12 oz ziti pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
½ cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add the chopped spinach, cooking until wilted. Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, ½ cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and heavy cream (if using), mixing until smooth.
- Combine the cooked ziti with the spinach marinara sauce in a large bowl.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop ricotta mixture over the pasta, then top with the remaining pasta.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra protein, add cooked chicken or sausage.
You can swap spinach for kale or other leafy greens.
For a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese and substitute the egg with a flax egg or tofu-based mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 380 kcal
